Tomato and Avocado Toast with Balsamic Syrup

Hard to believe there was a time I didn’t like them. When I was younger they seemed weirdly textured, even more weirdly colored, and devoid of taste. At that time the avocado hadn’t achieved the status it has today, being used primarily for guacamole and not much else. Even then, the guacamole served in most restaurants was slimy-not the chunky, complex versions of today.

I just finished reading several reviews of Gwyneth Paltrow’s new cookbook, It’s all Easy: Delicious Weekday Recipes for the Super-Busy Home Cook. Apparently, it’s a visually beautifully book with overly simple recipes-good for some, but not necessarily for experienced cooks. Although I haven’t check it out firsthand, one particular reviewer stated they were disappointed to find several pages solely dedicated to making avocado toast. Don’t get me wrong-I like Gwyneth more than the internet does on most days. I own one of her previous cookbooks, It’s all Good, and I’ve even made a few things from it (it’s been a while, though); however, I acquired the book primarily for the stunning photography by Ditte Isager.

The real question is this: Do we really need a recipe for avocado toast?

I make avocado toast a lot. Like, A WHOLE LOT. It’s filling, good for you, and, as with eggs, it can be dressed up pretty nicely and stand in for any meal. This variation elevates the toast by the addition of tomatoes and an easy to make balsamic syrup that can also be used with other dishes, such as grilled vegetables and salad dressings.

Make the balsamic syrup: Heat the vinegar in a small saucepan over low heat until it is reduced to 3-4 Tablespoons. Keep an eye on it-once it starts reducing it cooks fast and I have burned it a time or two. Remove from heat and pour in a small bowl or dish to cool while you assemble your toast.

Layer each piece of toast with avocado and a pinch of red pepper. You can slice the avocado if you want it to be pretty, or simply mash and spread with a fork impatiently like me. Top with tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Drizzle the vinegar over the toast. Enjoy perfection!